Helping Seniors Stay Active and Socially Connected Across the Province
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 14, 2019
SIMCOE – Ontario is committed to helping seniors keep active, healthy, safe, independent, and socially connected in their own communities. Yet, many seniors face financial and other obstacles in accessing programs and services that will help support their overall health and well-being.
Locally, Cayuga Senior Citizens Drop-In Centre will receive $28,758, Delhi Township Senior Citizens Club Inc. will receive $23,355 and Simcoe Seniors Centre $52,727.
“We would like to thank the Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility for their continued annual support of our Seniors Active Living Programs,” said Nikki Slote, of Norfolk County in regards to the Simcoe Seniors Centre grant. “The annual operating funding that we receive through the Seniors Activing Living Centre program helps to keep the Simcoe Seniors Centre vibrant. The additional approval of funds through the Special Grant process will be used to enhance the quality of programs that can be offered.”
“Cayuga Seniors Drop-In Centre currently has 171 members,” said treasurer Eleanor Ball. “It is an active seniors group who enjoy trips, carpet bowling, pot luck dinners, afternoon game times, knitting get-togethers and luncheons. Thanks to the ministry it is an active seniors group.”
That is why Ontario is investing $14.1 million to support more than 300 Seniors Active Living Centre programs in communities across the province, benefiting seniors in Haldimand and Norfolk.
“This funding will go a long way in helping seniors in Haldimand-Norfolk stay active and socially connected, while also preventing social isolation,” said Toby Barrett, Member of Provincial Parliament for Haldimand-Norfolk. “Seniors Active Living Centres provide a hub for seniors and their families to build positive connections, encourage physical activity, and in doing so, benefits everyone’s well-being.”
“Supporting our seniors today is about investing in all of our futures. This funding will have a direct and positive impact on seniors in communities across the province by giving them an opportunity to take part in programs and services that will help keep them active, socially connected, and healthy,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “These programs and services support healthy aging and help seniors to live the quality lives they deserve.”
Seniors Active Living Centre programs support over 100,000 seniors across the province, and this funding will provide a variety of programming and activities to help seniors stay active, socially engaged, safe, and healthy. This is especially important given that about 30 per cent of Canadian seniors are at risk of becoming socially isolated.
Ontario remains committed to protecting what matters most to seniors and their families.
QUICK FACTS
- Seniors Active Living Centre programs are community-based and promote wellness and social interaction.
- The senior population in Ontario is the fastest growing age group. By 2023, there will be 3 million Ontarians over the age of 65.
- Active aging brings positive health benefits, including helping to keep seniors out of the hospital.
LEARN MORE
- Seniors Active Living Centres
- Seniors Community Grant program
- Age Friendly Communities
- Ending Hallway Health Care
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For more information, contact MPP Toby Barrett at 519-428-0446 or toby.barrett@pc.ola.org